Hello, this is Woori Plastic Surgery.
Today, I’ll explain the double jaw surgery process in a little easier way for those who find it difficult to understand. In fact, the double jaw surgery process is not something that comes across clearly if you only hear a doctor’s explanation. The double jaw surgery method is a procedure that moves the facial bones in three dimensions, so it is difficult to fully understand unless you have actually gone through structural changes yourself or have related knowledge. Today, let’s take a look at the double jaw surgery process together.
The Difference Between Double Jaw Surgery and Contouring
Contouring surgery is, simply put, a cosmetic procedure that reduces the size or line of the face. It refines the outer line, such as the cheekbones, square jaw, and chin.
In contrast, double jaw surgery is basically a procedure that addresses functional problems. For example, if your teeth do not align well and it is difficult to chew food, if the jaw is asymmetrical and the face is skewed, or if pronunciation is unclear, double jaw surgery moves the jaw itself to a normal position to improve these issues. As a result, facial balance improves, and cosmetic benefits come along with correction of asymmetry.
Changes After Double Jaw Surgery
In double jaw surgery, the upper jaw moves upward and backward, and the lower jaw moves accordingly, which organizes the overall length and three-dimensional balance of the face. The difference is especially clear in the side profile. Contouring has limited side-view changes, but double jaw surgery can shorten vertical length and adjust overall proportions. So when people look at photos, it may not seem dramatically different, but in person, they often say it looks much more natural and harmonious.
Is It Possible Even Without Functional Problems?
Nowadays, many people consider double jaw surgery not only because of bite problems (malocclusion), but also for cosmetic reasons, such as having a long face or showing a lot of gum when smiling. In particular, in the case of a “long face type” with a long midface, the gums may show excessively when smiling, or the upper lip may appear short. In such cases, double jaw surgery that slightly lifts the upper jaw can improve gum exposure and correct facial proportions.
Double Jaw Surgery Process
Because the double jaw surgery process is structurally complex, it involves a procedure called model surgery. A dental impression of the patient is taken to create an actual model, and a simulated surgery is performed on that model before the real operation is carried out. Before surgery, orthodontic appliances are attached at the dental clinic, and blood tests and transfusion cross-matching are also performed. The actual surgery is done under general anesthesia, and patients are usually discharged after a 2-night, 3-day hospital stay.
After discharge, they visit the clinic several times to check their recovery status and have stitches removed. After that, they move on to an orthodontic clinic and continue orthodontic treatment once a month.
Double jaw surgery is not simply a procedure to make the face smaller; it is a surgery that improves functional problems while correcting facial balance. Although it may seem complicated, understanding the principles of the double jaw surgery process makes it clear why it is needed. If you are considering double jaw surgery but still feel confused, we recommend that you consult with the surgeon and look at the 3D CT images directly to check the direction of jaw movement and the expected changes together.
